Understanding Injectable Treatments for Addiction Recovery: Sublocade, Brixadi, and Vivitrol
At Etowah Recovery Center, we understand that the journey to recovery is deeply personal. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be a powerful ally for many individuals struggling with opioid or alcohol dependence. Among MAT options, long-acting injectables such as Sublocade, Brixadi, and Vivitrol offer unique benefits that can significantly improve outcomes, especially when it comes to managing cravings and staying consistent with treatment.
What Are Sublocade, Brixadi, and Vivitrol?
These three medications are FDA-approved, extended-release injectable treatments that support recovery from substance use disorders. While they serve similar goals, reducing cravings and preventing relapse, they differ in important ways.
Sublocade
- Active Ingredient: Buprenorphine
- Used For: Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
- Dosing: Once monthly injection (after at least 7 days on oral buprenorphine)
- How It Works: Sublocade delivers a steady dose of buprenorphine over a month, which binds to opioid receptors and reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing a high.
Brixadi
- Active Ingredient: Buprenorphine
- Used For: Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
- Dosing: Available in both weekly and monthly formulations
- How It Works: Like Sublocade, Brixadi uses buprenorphine to stabilize brain chemistry. The option of weekly injections can be especially helpful during the early phase of treatment or for patients who want more flexible dosing.
Vivitrol
- Active Ingredient: Naltrexone
- Used For: Both Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
- Dosing: Once monthly injection
- How It Works: Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors entirely, preventing the euphoric effects of opioids and reducing alcohol cravings. It does not contain an opioid and is best used after full detoxification.
Benefits of Injectable Medications
Injectable treatments offer several advantages over daily medications like oral buprenorphine or naltrexone:
- Improved Compliance: One injection can last for a week or month, removing the burden of daily dosing and reducing the risk of missed doses or relapse.
- Reduced Diversion: Since these medications are administered by healthcare professionals, there’s virtually no risk of misuse, loss, or diversion.
- Stability and Routine: Scheduled injections can help create structure and accountability, which are crucial during early recovery.
- Steady Medication Levels: Unlike pills that can cause peaks and troughs in drug levels, injectables provide a consistent therapeutic effect, leading to more stable mood and craving control.
- Empowerment Through Choice: With options like Brixadi offering weekly or monthly doses, patients and providers can choose the best fit for each stage of recovery.
Choosing the Right Path
No single treatment fits everyone. At Etowah Recovery Center, we work closely with each client to assess their history, goals, and medical needs to determine the most appropriate MAT option. Whether you are just starting your recovery journey or looking for more support to maintain sobriety, injectable treatments like Sublocade, Brixadi, and Vivitrol can be life-changing tools.
If you or a loved one is curious about injectable treatments for addiction recovery, reach out to our compassionate team. We’re here to help you take the next step with confidence.
